Niehaus tributes, memorials to run all weekend

The grounds crew at Safeco Field made their own tribute to Dave Niehaus in the infield dirt Thursday. (Joshua Trujillo/seattlepi.com)

For grieving fans, there will be no shortage of ways to pay tribute to Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus this weekend.

The team has not announced plans for a formal memorial service, but here’s a rundown of the offerings from the Mariners, television and radio.

On Saturday, the Home Plate Gate of Safeco Field will open at noon, giving fans a chance to gather and reflect on the life of the Hall of Famer. There will be no formal program, but fans are encouraged to sign a book of remembrance and view memorabilia from Niehaus’ 34-year career with the Mariners. The gates will be open from noon-3 p.m. Admission is free.

At noon Saturday, the team’s flagship radio stations, 710 ESPN Seattle and News Talk 97.3 KIRO FM, will air the decisive Game 5 the 1995 American League Division Series. The game culminated in perhaps Niehaus’ most famous call as Ken Griffey Jr. scored the winning run against the Yankees to send the Mariners to the American League Championship Series. The game will air commercial-free. “My Oh My – A Tribute to Dave Niehaus” also will include stories and commentary from former players and colleagues, including Jay Buhner, Griffey, Rick Rizzs, Harold Reynolds and Ron Fairly.

Starting at 7 p.m. Thursday night, FSN will air the following shows in a two-hour block five times through the weekend. “Niehaus: My First Trip to Cooperstown:” Following Niehaus as he visits the Baseball Hall of Fame during a Mariners road trip to New York in May 2008. “In My Own Words: Dave Niehaus:” Niehaus describes his career track from his childhood in Indiana to his 34 years as the voice of the Mariners. “Northwest Top 10: Niehaus Calls:” The best calls from Niehaus’ career, from the first game, to The Double, to the 116th win in 2001. “Niehaus: My Life In Baseball:” Niehaus offers a more personal look at who he is and why he became a broadcaster instead of a dentist. Here’s the schedule: Thursday: 7 p.m., 9 p.m.; Friday: 4 p.m.; Saturday: 10:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10 p.m.